By Adesakin Adefemi
Panic has gripped Ayegunle Bunu community in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State after bandits attacked in the early hours of Monday, June 1, 2026. The assault left one person dead and more than 30 others abducted.
According to preliminary reports, the attack occurred around 2:25 a.m. One person was reportedly killed during the incident, while another sustained injuries. Residents said the attackers moved swiftly through the community.
Sources in Ayegunle Bunu disclosed that two residents, a man and a woman, were among those abducted. The remaining victims were reportedly passengers travelling in a commercial bus intercepted by the attackers while passing through the area.
The Kogi State Commissioner of Police, Naziru Kankarofi, confirmed the incident while addressing journalists. He spoke on the sidelines of the Passing-Out Parade of 565 newly trained police constables at the Command Headquarters in Lokoja.
CP Kankarofi said an investigation into the abduction is ongoing. He stressed that officers have launched efforts to rescue the abducted victims and to apprehend those responsible for the attack.
The police commissioner did not provide details on the identity of the armed group. He assured residents that security operatives were working to secure the release of the captives.
The attack has heightened tension in Kabba/Bunu LGA, where communities have raised concerns about rising insecurity in rural areas. Residents called for increased patrols and support from security agencies.
Ayegunle Bunu is one of several communities in Kogi West that have experienced attacks in recent months. The latest incident adds to growing pressure on security forces to curb banditry in the state.
The Command said it would provide updates as the rescue operation progresses. Authorities urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies.
